1965 Caravel Water Heater

[flashgrbiv]

I have a 1965 Caravel with a working waterheater. I thought I had a leak and pulled the water heater to replace it. I then found the leak was from the drain pipes. The water heater is fine.
I used it for a bit and found that it didn't really keep water at a constant temperature. The water had to get pretty cold before it fired. It also was difficult to light the pilot. Another thing I noticed was when I pulled it the water that drained was really cloudy and dirty.
Here is my issue. I've got a working original waterheater, but I am not happy with its performance, so I've ordered a new one. Do I sell the old one, keep it for a future owner, or go back to the old one?
Thanks for any and all opinions.
Flash

[62overlander]

why hassle with the old one? A new water heater is cheap and the peace of mind is priceless. I put in a new Atwood, it took about 20 minutes. I chose the pilot light model, for I am always checking anyhow, and felt it was no big deal to light. I however, also like to crank my jack stand manually. If you save all your Bowen cover parts you can make a false door for your new one like this.

I do not think saving the original will effect your value if that is your concern. All that sediment cannot be good for you or the operation of the unit.

[toastie]

Originally Posted by flashgrbiv

I have a 1965 Caravel with a working waterheater. I thought I had a leak and pulled the water heater to replace it. I then found the leak was from the drain pipes. The water heater is fine.
I used it for a bit and found that it didn't really keep water at a constant temperature. The water had to get pretty cold before it fired. It also was difficult to light the pilot. Another thing I noticed was when I pulled it the water that drained was really cloudy and dirty.
Here is my issue. I've got a working original waterheater, but I am not happy with its performance, so I've ordered a new one. Do I sell the old one, keep it for a future owner, or go back to the old one?
Thanks for any and all opinions.
Flash

Replaced my old hot water with a Atwood and very happy with the performance. Sold the cover on ebay for $70.00, cover was in perfect condition.

[flashgrbiv]

Thank you for all the advice. I got the old Bowen out and am probably going to list it on ebay once I figure out how to pack it. There is a new Atwood in the mail!
Flash